Have you ever heard someone sug- gest that if you just trust Jesus, He’ll solve all your problems and you’ll float through life with riches and peace?

If that were the way God planned it for the people who serve Him, then what was Paul’s problem? After his conversion he was as godly as they come, yet he had many problems. He was one of the greatest missionaries of all time—and what did he get for his trouble? Beaten up, arrested, nearly drowned and chased out of cities.

Look at Joseph, Abraham, Job, Jeremiah or Peter—all godly men. Yet they all faced dangers and trouble none of us would ever desire.

So, why the struggle? Why is it that tragedy strikes Christians with the same blunt force that it strikes the most antagonistic atheists? Why are we not exempt from natural disasters, serious illness, interpersonal squabbles and mistreatment by others?

Somehow, in God’s way of making things work out, our troubles can advance His kingdom and purposes (Rom. 8:28; Phil. 1:12). Our task is to glorify God, no matter what the circumstances. If we do, our struggle can direct others to the Saviour as we make our way towards our ultimate goal of rest and reward in heaven.

Author

Dave Branon

Topics

Our Daily Bread